Emergency power systems, if not properly maintained, can deteriorate over time due to various factors such as parts failure, system changes, and human intervention. The consequences of such systems failing during an emergency can be severe, leading to significant product, equipment, and production losses that can range from moderate to catastrophic.
To prevent such occurrences, routine preventive maintenance, system exercise, and operational testing should be performed regularly to ensure that individual system components are working properly. According to NFPA 110 standards, recommended intervals for testing items such as EPSS components, batteries, ATSs, generator fuel, and breakers should occur as frequently as weekly or monthly.
Many manufacturers, electrical and mechanical contractors, engineers, insurance providers, and local jurisdictions also recommend or require annual "pull-the-plug" power interruption testing, also known as loss of power response (LOPR) testing. These tests verify that all generators and ATS systems will start as required in an emergency and that electrical distribution from the main service will rapidly return to normal once utility power is restored.
For more information or assistance with emergency power system testing, please contact Omni at (908) 412-7130 or (240) 341-7915.